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Your Wellness Resource

Nourish Your Body: Top Food Choices for National Nutrition Month

3/6/2025

 
man grocery shopping in vegetable aisle
​March is National Nutrition Month, a perfect time to refocus on what fuels our bodies best! At Flourish Medical + Wellness, we believe that small, intentional changes to your diet can make a big difference in how you feel. Whether you’re grocery shopping, eating out, or planning meals at home, choosing nutrient-dense, whole foods is the key to flourishing.
 
Aiming for at least 25 grams of fiber per day through whole food is a great start. Studies show the more fiber in the diet, the less likely you are to have abdominal fat! Fruits and vegetables are the best sources for fiber. Include cauliflower, corn, squashes, collard greens, bananas, and sweet potatoes in a regular rotation. Here are more items to add to your next grocery list.

Best Fruits to Add to Your Diet

​(Choose organic whenever possible!)
BERRIES: A Heart-Healthy Powerhouse
Berries are packed with anthocyanins, compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation. Some top choices include blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries – perfect for a delicious antioxidant boost.
Healthy Hint: Add these to Greek yogurt for a protein-packed, nutrient-dense snack.

CITRUS FRUITS: Antioxidant & Vitamin C Boost
Oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes are excellent sources of vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health.
Healthy Hint: Add citrus juice to water for a refreshing, health-boosting drink!

APPLES: A Gut Health Superstar
High in fiber and pectin, apples support digestion and gut health.
Healthy Hint: Eat them raw with the skin on for maximum benefit!

AVOCADOS: The Ultimate Superfood
Loaded with monounsaturated fat and potassium, avocados help maintain heart health and energy levels.
Healthy Hint: Add avocado to salads or eat it solo for a snack! Bonus: It contains more protein than most other fruits.

Best Vegetable Options

(Again, organic is best!)
LEAFY GREENS: Nutrient Powerhouses
Kale, spinach, and Brussels sprouts are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support overall health.
Healthy Hint: Pair leafy greens with a protein source or avocado for better nutrient absorption!

CARROTS: A Vision & Immune Booster
Rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene, carrots support eye health and immune function.
Healthy Hint: Eat them raw 3-4 times per week for the most benefit.

BROCCOLI: Hormone-Regulating Superfood
A cruciferous vegetable loaded with essential vitamins and minerals; broccoli helps with hormonal balance and offers valuable fiber to your daily intake.
Healthy Hint: Eat 1-2 servings per week for best results!

BEETS: The Root Veggie for Blood Flow
High in fiber and folate, beets support digestion and heart health by improving nitric oxide levels, which can help lower blood pressure.
Healthy Hint: Eat beets regularly to boost circulation and energy levels.
Looking for healthy non-veggie options?
Beans, almonds, quinoa, and oatmeal are delicious fiber-filled foods to enjoy.

How to Order Healthy When Eating Out

Navigating restaurant menus can be tricky, but making healthier choices doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Here are some smart options:
  • Chopped Salad – A great balance of fiber, protein, and nutrients.
  • Tacos – Choose corn tortillas and lean, grilled protein over fried options.
  • Grilled Protein – Opt for fish, chicken, or lean beef, paired with vegetables or a salad.
  • Burrito Bowl – Skip the tortilla and load up on veggies, beans, and protein.
  • Eggs & Omelets – Packed with protein and vitamins, a veggie-filled omelet is a perfect meal any time of day.
 
Foods to Avoid:
  1. Fried foods
  2. Creamy sauces
  3. Highly processed snacks (think bar /protein bars)
  4. Pastries & donuts
  5. Large portions of pasta
  6. French fries (sorry!)
 
Fuel Your Body, Flourish in Life
National Nutrition Month is a great time to start incorporating wholesome, nutrient-dense foods into your daily routine. Whether you’re at home or dining out, making small healthy swaps can lead to long-term benefits for your energy, digestion, and overall well-being. Print a copy of our Easy Food Swap Guide for your next trip to the grocery store.
 
Want personalized nutrition guidance? At Flourish Medical + Wellness, we’re here to help! Contact us today to learn how functional medicine can support your health journey.

Flourish with The Twelve Days of Health

12/9/2024

 
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During the holiday season, we often reminisce about the joy of singing familiar Christmas carols. At Flourish, we’re excited to offer a festive twist with our "12 Days of Health" countdown, designed to inspire and motivate you as you begin your wellness journey in the new year.

Follow us on
Facebook and Instagram for daily tips and reminders to encourage healthy choices. To get you started, we’re sharing them right here—get ready to embrace a healthier, happier you this year! 

Day 1: Immune Boost Basics

Staying healthy during flu season requires a combination of strengthening your immune system and practicing good hygiene. Start by prioritizing hand hygiene, washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. When soap isn’t available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, and avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth. Staying hydrated is also essential for overall health, so drink plenty of water and incorporate herbal teas like ginger or chamomile for their soothing and immune-boosting properties. 
Getting adequate sleep is another critical factor, as your body needs 7–9 hours of quality rest each night to recover and repair. Pair good sleep with regular exercise, such as walking, yoga, or strength training, to improve circulation and strengthen your immune response. Managing stress is equally important, as high stress levels can weaken your immunity. Relaxation techniques like meditation and deep breathing can help keep stress in check. 

Incorporating immune-boosting
foods into your diet is a natural way to support your health. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruits, bell peppers, and strawberries, are excellent choices, along with zinc-rich options like pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, and nuts. Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt with live cultures, kefir, and fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and kimchi can enhance gut health, which is closely linked to immune function. Antioxidant-packed foods like berries, spinach, and sweet potatoes, along with anti-inflammatory choices like turmeric, ginger, and fatty fish, offer additional protection.

Recommended supplements (for the entire family) include:
  • Orthomune – This can be taken preventatively or for an acute illness. Take as directed on the bottle for prevention or take a double dose every 4 hours during an acute illness.
  • Cytoimmune – This can be taken preventatively or for an acute illness. Take as directed on the bottle. This can also be used preventatively during travel. Cytoimmune is best for teens and adults. 
  • ViRadChem Binder – This can be taken preventatively or for an acute illness. Take 1 capsule once daily for prevention or 2 capsules twice daily for an active infection. Kids younger than age 10 should take a half dose. 

Day 2: Know Your Numbers

Did you know there are more medical testing options than just blood work and lab results? At  Flourish Medical + Wellness we take a holistic approach to medicine. Therefore, we offer more testing options than the typical blood work labs. What this means for you is that we can use clinical results to determine the cause of physical symptoms you may be experiencing. These deeper-dive options will help us see the full picture of your health and create a personalized treatment plan. And when we review your test results, we consider optimal vs. “normal” ranges. Normal is based on 95% of people who are tested. This includes healthy and SICK people. We don’t compare you to other sick people here at Flourish. We want you to be optimal – healthy!  Learn more from this helpful video. Once you’ve had your second visit with us you will understand why Flourish is different than any medical provider you’ve seen in the past. 

Day 3: Hydration Tips

Staying hydrated is just as important in the winter as it is during warmer months, even though you may feel less thirsty in colder weather. Proper hydration supports digestion, circulation, and immune function, and it’s especially vital during flu season to help your body stay resilient.  

Along with water, maintaining your electrolyte balance is essential, as electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium help regulate fluid levels, muscle function, and energy. You can boost electrolyte intake naturally by adding foods like bananas, citrus fruits, leafy greens, and seeds to your diet or by sipping on electrolyte-rich drinks, such as coconut water or our recommended electrolyte powder
LMNT. To make water more appealing, try infusing it with seasonal fruits and herbs—slices of oranges, apples, or pears combined with a sprig of rosemary, or a cinnamon stick add a delicious, wintery twist.  

Warm beverages like herbal teas or hot water with lemon and honey can also help you stay hydrated while offering comfort on chilly days. By prioritizing hydration and electrolytes, you’ll give your body the support it needs to thrive during the colder months.
 

Day 4: Female Hormones in Harmony

We need to bring the topic of peri/menopause front and center! It’s no longer just something women “need to live with.” Women on average are healthier than men during the first two-thirds of their lifespan. The last one-third (after menopause) this changes and men on average are healthier than women.   
"... Jackie looked at me and my symptoms... She set treatment up and I remember how good I felt after I was treated... Biote Pellets have done so many GREAT things for me.  #1 biggest improvement is my mental health has never been better,  #2 energy levels are amazing, #3 memory hasn’t been this good in years. And my thyroid was low, too so... those issues are improving now."     - Paula A. ​
Read more patient stories to witness the impact of our hormone treatment plans.  

Day 5: Family First Wellness

Keeping the whole family healthy starts with creating routines that prioritize wellness for everyone. Encourage regular handwashing, especially before meals and after coming home from school, work, or outings, to minimize the spread of germs. Focus on balanced, nutrient-dense meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support immune health, and make staying hydrated a family habit by keeping water bottles accessible for everyone.  

Adequate sleep is vital for all ages, so establish consistent bedtime routines that allow enough rest for both children and adults. Stay active together by incorporating family walks, bike rides, or indoor activities like fitness programs, which not only promote physical health but also strengthen your bond. Manage stress as a family by setting aside time for relaxation, whether through mindfulness practices, reading, or simply enjoying quality time together. By making these habits a part of your daily life, you can help ensure your family stays healthy and resilient throughout the year.  

Here are some recommended supplements to have on hand:
  • Bioray Immune – Daily immune support and boost for kids
  • ViVi – This is a natural anti-viral that can be used as needed for viral infections for kids or adults. For active infections, use ViVi 2-3 times daily until symptom resolution.
  • Bactrex – This is a natural anti-bacterial that can be used as needed when bacterial infections arise for kids or adults. For active infections, use Bactrex twice daily until symptoms have resolved. 

Day 6: Get to Know Your Health Practitioners

The team at Flourish Medical + Wellness is a dedicated group of professionals specializing in holistic and integrative care. Led by founder Jackie Tewes, MSN, APRN, CNP, and co-owner Tad Tewes, MPAS, PA-C, the staff includes experienced nurse practitioners, physician assistant, registered nurses, and patient services representatives. They emphasize preventive health, wellness, hormone therapy, and personalized care, supporting patients through various life stages. The team’s diverse expertise ensures comprehensive support for physical and emotional well-being. For more details, visit our team page. Learn more about becoming a Flourish patient. 

Day 7: Weight Loss Ideas

Sustainable weight loss is best approached with a balanced and individualized strategy that considers factors like nutrition, exercise, mental well-being, and long-term habits to promote lasting results and a healthier lifestyle. Restoring optimal hormone levels, testosterone, estradiol, and thyroid, is an integral part of a successful weight loss plan. This makes weight loss more attainable as well as sustainable! High toxin load also contributes to weight gain and weight loss resistance as toxins are fat soluble. Therefore, detoxification may be necessary to jumpstart weight loss, or to push beyond a weight loss plateau.  

Sustained weight loss is best achieved by optimizing hormones and thyroid, removing excess toxins, and implementing effective diet and exercise plans.  We’re here to help. We offer toxin testing and the InBody scan for a deeper understanding of your personal weight loss needs. Schedule an initial consultation and learn more on our YouTube Channel. 
If you are struggling with weight gain you can't lose, perimenopause, menopause and/or weight gain PLEASE do yourself a favor and see Jackie. Traditional and Western medicine just couldn't seem to help. It's worth your investment."    
​- Jennifer E. ​

Day 8: What is your menopause IQ?

Have you heard (or thought) of these myths regarding menopause? 
Myth #1: Menopause Means the End of Your Sex Life
Myth #2: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is the Only Treatment
Myth #3: Menopause Only Affects Women's Reproductive Systems
Myth #4: Menopause is the Same for Every Woman

Do NOT believe them! Perimenopause and menopause are natural phases in a woman's life that can be accompanied by a variety of symptoms. By understanding these changes and
dispelling common myths and misconceptions, women can take control of their health and well-being during this transitional period. You do not have to suffer with these symptoms. At Flourish we recommend bioidentical/iso-molecular HRT only. We offer different modalities – patches, creams, and pellets. Speak with your provider regarding which is best for you. You don’t have to suffer in silence!  

We offer greater insight in this
blog post and webinar.  

Day 9: Give the Gift of Health

Wellness gifts are a thoughtful way to support health and relaxation during the holiday season. Consider items like aromatherapy diffusers with calming essential oils, cozy weighted blankets, or self-care kits with bath salts, and skincare essentials. Fitness-related gifts such as yoga mats, resistance bands, or virtual class memberships are great for staying active. For stress relief, journals, guided meditation apps, or subscription boxes for herbal teas or healthy snacks make excellent options. Personalized wellness items, like a gift certificate for a massage or Flourish care, add a meaningful touch.

This month we are offering a
Gift Card Special at our clinic.
Call or stop in to purchase a $100 gift card and receive a $20 bonus for yourself!

Day 10: Man-up Your Hormones

The normal aging process is starting at an even younger age for men due to toxins in our products, high stress levels, hormone-infused foods, and synthetic medications. Men experience a gradual reduction in testosterone levels over time, which leads to unwanted symptoms. The medical term for this is andropause.

Andropause (aka Manopause) starts somewhere in the mid to upper 30s for most men. A gradual decline happens from then on. Men can see body composition changes, mood changes, lower motivation, and changes in sexual function just to name a few. We strongly
do not recommend synthetic testosterone injections. These can come along with significant risks and side effects. You do not have to suffer with these symptoms. At Flourish we recommend bioidentical/iso-molecular HRT only. We offer different modalities – gels, creams, and pellets. Speak with your provider regarding which is best for you. 

Our patients
share their story and invite you to seek the care you deserve. 

Day 11: Foundational Health

 At Flourish, our focus is foundational health! We believe God created the body in a remarkable way that can heal and function at a high level if there is a healthy foundation present. This includes healthy lifestyle habits, removing things (toxins) that may be disrupting the foundation, and refilling tanks that may be empty. Resetting and restoring the foundation allows the body to function as God designed! 

You will find daily, weekly, and monthly recommendations in this helpful guide. 

Day 12: Set your Wellness Intentions

To set achievable wellness resolutions for the new year, start by focusing on small, measurable goals. We encourage you to choose one or two areas to improve, such as increasing daily water intake, getting more sleep, or practicing mindfulness for a few minutes each day. Be sure to set realistic timelines and track your progress to stay motivated. Remember the importance of balance—incorporating exercise into daily routines but also prioritizing mental health with self-care practices. Remember, consistency is key, and progress is often about small, sustainable changes over time. We offer many helpful free resources on our website. 

If you would like guidance, treatment, and support – consider
partnering with us during your wellness journey.  

Ten Ways to Flourish in 2024

12/31/2023

 
infographic circle
At Flourish Medical + Wellness, we're all about making sure your body works at its best. We’re very aware of the research compiled over hundreds of years on how to keep people healthy and thriving. And we aren't fond of just extending life by taking meds every day to cover up symptoms. Our approach to medicine is all about helping you live long and stay healthy, as God intended. Here are ten ways to flourish as we partner with you in your wellness. 

#1 Weight Loss

At FMW we believe that an effective weight loss program needs to be tailored to each individual’s lifestyle, health, age, and hormone levels. Therefore, we offer a variety of weight loss options in order to provide optimal results for each individual patient. With the goal of sustainable weight loss, the best approach is with a balanced and individualized strategy that considers factors like nutrition, exercise, mental well-being, and long-term habits. Restoring optimal hormone levels, testosterone, estradiol, and thyroid, is an integral part of a successful weight loss plan. This makes weight loss more attainable as well as sustainable! Learn more about FMW weight loss testing and treatments>> ​

#2 IV Therapy

Intravenous (IV) nutrient therapy is a treatment which includes ingredients like essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids proven over decades to play a significant role in our health and wellness. IV nutrient therapy is a safe, effective, and restorative therapy used to aid in treating several medical conditions and to boost your immune system. Our IV therapy is customized to meet each individual’s nutritional needs and is administered directly into the veins which provides significantly more benefit than oral and traditional supplements and medications. Check out the benefits and our nutrient menu>> 

#3 Hormone Therapy

Hormone imbalance happens to both men and women and can have a significant impact on overall health and wellness. Hormones are one of the most important regulatory systems in the body. They function as messengers, interacting with specific target cells and organs to stimulate them into action. Hormone replacement therapy offers relief from many of the uncomfortable symptoms caused by a hormone imbalance. It can change your life! Read our patient’s stories>> 

​Understand your options and learn more in the video from Jackie Tewes>> 

#4 Toxin Removal

God designed our bodies to be able to detoxify and heal in most circumstances, however, with continuous toxin exposure and a lack of nutrient dense foods to nourish our bodies and support healing, those natural detoxification pathways can become blocked or stagnant. When this occurs, toxins build up inside the body and can cause diffuse inflammation, leading to disease processes. At Flourish, we offer thorough toxin testing and detoxification options. Discover the symptoms of toxin overload>> 

#5 Nutrition

We have all heard (and likely tried) dozens of diets to help us achieve our weight goals. Nutrition means so many different things to each of us. The focus that we offer is to rely on natural, healthy foods that nourish our bodies in order to help us function optimally. Small, sustainable changes are the focus as they are often longer lasting solutions and easier to implement. That’s why we offer a handy (free) Food Swap Guide to make healthy grocery shopping a little easier. At Flourish, we also partner with you through holistic Functional Medicine methods. Perhaps intermittent fasting is an approach you’ve been wanting to investigate. We’ve got a great resource for you.  

#6 Supplementation

Our best resource for nutrition should be food but there are many situations where we need to look at supplementation to enhance the amount of vitamins and minerals our bodies are receiving. Most American diets are full of refined carbohydrates and sugars and are insufficient in essential vitamins and antioxidants. This can leave you deficient in many key nutrients that are needed to prevent chronic disease, and to run all body systems effectively. A balanced diet provides a source of vitamins and minerals, but taking dietary supplements with your healthy diet is beneficial in ensuring your body has enough of the nutrients it needs each day. Our (free) Holistic Home Remedies booklet is a great place to start! And our supplement recommendations are available for you to purchase online or at our clinic. 

#7 Essential Oils

Essential oils are concentrated extracts derived from various plants and have been used for centuries for their potential health and wellness benefits. While individual experiences can vary, here are some commonly reported benefits of essential oils: aromatherapy, stress and anxiety reduction, improved sleep, pain relief, immune system support, headache relief, skin care, natural air freshener, home cleansers, mood enhancement, and repelling insects. With so many benefits and essential oils to choose from, it’s a great way to flourish! You can learn more and order from our own doTERRA essential oil shop>>  

#8 Aesthetic Therapy

At Flourish, our definition of wellness encompasses all aspects of whole-person care, including physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Appearance can have a profound impact on wellness and how we interact with those around us. That is why we offer aesthetic treatments and have chosen to use the safest FDA-approved products to keep you feeling and looking your best. Botox® Cosmetic is the first FDA-approved treatment to improve frown lines, crow’s feet, and forehead lines in adults. The best results come from a well-trained medical provider who understands facial anatomy and musculature and customizes treatment to each individual patient. That's one of the reasons to schedule your Botox® Cosmetic treatments with us. Learn more>> 

#9 Gut Health 

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the relationship between gut health and overall well-being. We now understand that the gut plays a central role in our health, impacting everything from digestion to the immune system and even mental health. One approach that's gaining traction in the pursuit of optimal gut health is functional medicine. At FMW we also know the increasing exposure to toxins in our environment can worsen symptoms. That is why we offer a parasite protocol. Parasites weaken the body’s natural defense mechanisms which allows for easier invasion by parasites. They may be the underlying trigger for a variety of chronic health conditions, like autoimmune diseases and irritable bowel syndrome. We offer testing and treatment! Learn more about parasite protocol>> 

#10 Emotional Health

To flourish, we must place a priority on our emotional wellness. Our medical practice seeks to bring wholeness through physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. That’s why we offer more in-depth testing. If you have been struggling with physical, mental, or emotional symptoms that have no known or identifiable cause, a trapped emotion may be the cause. Working with the Governing Meridian energy pathway and applied kinesiology, these trapped emotions can be identified and removed, leading to healing and improvement or resolution of the associated symptoms. Learn more>> 

We’ve
shared a few of the ways you can
flourish in 2024! Hopefully, you’ve discovered what makes us different from other medical clinics. Our personal approach to YOUR individual needs is the focus. And the treatments and plans we suggest for you aren't determined by insurance companies. Instead, we give you the care that fits you like a glove. We look at your symptoms, offer appropriate testing, complete a comprehensive assessment to determine your care plan.

It's all about personalized care here at Flourish Medical + Wellness. Learn more about our Team and call us to schedule your first visit!  
Contact Us

Detoxifying Your Body From Environmental Poisons: Why it Matters

5/12/2023

 
water glass and toxin handout
In today’s world, we are exposed to a multitude of toxins and pollutants in the environment. From the food we eat to the air we breathe; our bodies are constantly bombarded with chemicals and substances that can harm our health. While our bodies have natural processes to remove these toxins, they can become overwhelmed, leading to a buildup of harmful toxins. We’ve heard a lot about toxins, but it’s important to be aware of the ways they can enter our bodies and take steps to minimize our exposure. We’ve taken you through The Effects of Toxin and Pollutant Exposure in a previous blog post.
How toxins can enter our body:
  1. Inhalation: Toxins can be present in the air we breathe, such as pollutants from car exhaust, industrial emissions, and second-hand smoke.
  2. Food: Our food can be contaminated with toxins such as pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, and artificial additives. Processed and pre-packaged foods are particularly prone to contamination.
  3. Water: Contaminants such as lead, chlorine, and pesticides can be present in our drinking water.
  4. Skin Absorption: Toxins can also enter our body through our skin, particularly when we use personal care products that contain harmful chemicals.
  5. Injection: Toxins can enter our body through injections, such as vaccines and medical treatments.
  6. Occupational Exposure: Individuals who work in certain industries, such as manufacturing and construction, are at a higher risk of exposure to toxins.
To maintain optimal health, it is important to regularly detoxify our bodies from environmental toxins.
​
Why it's important:

​Supports a Healthy Immune System

​Toxins can weaken our immune system, making us more susceptible to illness and disease. A regular detoxification program can help to remove these harmful substances from our bodies and support the functioning of our immune system. This can help to boost our overall health and reduce our risk of developing serious health problems.

Helps Maintain a Healthy Weight

​Many environmental toxins are stored in our fat cells, leading to weight gain and difficulty losing weight. Detoxifying your body can help to eliminate these toxins, allowing your body to function more efficiently and promoting weight loss.

​Improves Energy and Mental Clarity

​Environmental toxins can also affect our energy levels and mental clarity. A detox can help to remove these toxins, allowing us to feel more energetic and focused. This can have a positive impact on our daily lives, allowing us to be more productive and efficient. We offer Total Toxin Testing here at Flourish.

​Supports Better Digestion

​Toxins can also disrupt the normal functioning of our digestive system, leading to symptoms such as bloating, gas, and constipation. Detoxifying your body can help to improve the functioning of your digestive system, promoting better digestion and reducing symptoms.

​Reduces Risk of Chronic Diseases

​Research has shown that exposure to environmental toxins can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune disorders. Detoxifying your body can help to reduce your risk of developing these conditions by removing harmful substances from your body.
Reducing our exposure to toxins can help us to maintain optimal health and reduce the risk of serious health problems. At Flourish, we offer a helpful list of daily, weekly, and monthly Detox Tips. Regular detoxification of your body from environmental poisons is essential to maintaining optimal health. By supporting your immune system, promoting weight loss, improving energy and mental clarity, supporting better digestion, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, a detox can help you feel your best and lead a healthier, more fulfilling life. Consider incorporating a detox program into your routine to take control of your health and protect yourself from the harmful effects of environmental toxins. Get your Daily Toxin Healthy Habits booklet>>
More Resources

The Effects of Toxin and Pollutant Exposure

5/6/2022

 
The exposure to pollutants is unavoidable. When we breath, it's in the air. What we eat and drink and even the pans we use to prepare a meal are all contaminated by some form of toxic chemicals. And here's a wake-up call: 70,000 new synthetic chemicals were introduced into our environment during the twentieth century and 80% of these new chemicals have never been screened for their effects on human health.

Pollutant overload is harmful to three of our most critical physiological systems - immune system, nervous system, and endocrine system. This exposure causes chronic illnesses, autoimmune disease, cancer, thyroid disorders, and hormone imbalance, to name a few. If you wonder why you experience fatigue, migraine headaches, aches, and moodiness - you could be over exposed to toxins. We want to make you aware and uncover some of the sources of toxic chemicals in your life. First, let's uncover the contaminants in food, water, and air.
kitchen sink water testing

Food Contamination

  • Over 1billion tons of pesticides are used in the US every year:
    • These find their way into our food and water sources
    • EPA (environmental protection agency) survey shows that ALL commercially grown foods in America have pesticides in them
  • Animals crowded into feedlots are given antibiotics and treated with pesticides:
    • These animals are given commercially produced foods that are treated with insecticides and herbicides
    • These toxins accumulate in the animal's bodily tissues and are passed on to consumers
  • Food preparation, storage, and transportation also contribute to toxin exposure
  • Food additives include preservatives, flavorings, colorings and dyes
  • Bleaching of foods like French fries, is done with sulfuric acid and chlorine
  • Fungicides and fumigants are sprayed directly onto perishables to delay spoiling and to protect them from insects
  • Phthalates are synthetic chemicals that make plastic flexible. These toxins leach out of the plastic and contaminates food and drinks

Water Pollution

  • Chlorinated city water contains 100-10,000 times as many synthetic compounds as natural spring water
  • We absorb more of these pollutants from bathing than drinking
  • Trihalomethane is a by-product from the chlorination process and is toxic to humans
  • Arsenic, mercury, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are also found in our drinking water
  • Fluoride is found in our drinking water and has been shown to destroy thyroid gland tissues

Air Pollution

  • Adults inhale about three metric tons of air each year (4.3 liters per minute), so minute amounts of pollutants in the atmosphere can accumulate in our bodies over time
  • The increase of industrialization during the twentieth century significantly increased toxic emissions
  • Due to trade winds, pesticides sprayed to control grasshoppers in Africa have been detected 5 days later in Florida
It helps to understand that toxins are fat soluble, meaning they are stored in our fat. This allows them to remain in our bodies for many years or decades. So, with continued daily exposure to even small amounts, the total amount of toxins in our bodies gradually increases. Toxins are also stored in the fatty tissues of animals and therefore are in the animal products we consume. Now, let's uncover the long-term effects of chemical exposure.

PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls)

  • Widely used as lubricants, hydraulic fluids, inks, paints, varnishes, adhesives, pesticides to make wood and rubber
  • Due to harmful effects on our thyroid and other bodily functions, PCBs were banned in 1977, however they have remained in our soil and water sources and are still found in the fat of animals we consume (fish, meat, and dairy products)

Dioxins

  • Formed during the production of chlorine containing chemicals such as pesticides, plastics, paper bleaching, and diesel engine exhaust
  • These are also distributed throughout our air, water, soil, sediment, food and animals
  • Dioxins are the most hazardous chemical pollutants and have been linked to Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and soft tissue cancers
  • Dioxins disrupt thyroid, testosterone, and estrogen functions
  • Dioxins lower sperm count and suppress immune function

DDT (Dichloro Diphenyl Trichloroethane)

  • Very potent insecticide
  • Was banned in America in 1972 after years of research that showed contamination of the entire world's food supply, high levels in fatty tissues of animals and humans, genetic
  • damage, cancer, and extinction of entire species
  • Despite the ban, America produced over 96 tons of DT for export overseas in 1991 and DT is still widely used to control mosquitoes in third-world countries
  • DT metabolites have a half-life of 57 years, meaning it takes 57 years for the body to completely rid itself of these toxins
  • DT blocks testosterone receptors and interferes with estrogen hormones
  • Every man, woman, and child still have detectable levels of DT

Phthalates (Group of synthetic chemicals)

  • Annual worldwide production of phthalates is estimated to be about one billion pounds per year
  • Used to make plastics flexible
  • Also found in hairspray, dyes, cosmetics, adhesives, oily perfumes, and lubricants
  • These chemicals leach into food and drinks that are contained in plastics
  • Phthalates interfere with thyroid hormone metabolism and adversely affect testosterone function
If we consider our exposure to heavy metals, we can see the effects on the enzymes that are crucial to produce our mitochondria. Mitochondria is an organelle found in large numbers in most cells, in which the biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur. Our body's energy is particularly sensitive to the effects of heavy metals. And finally, we'll explore the sources and results of exposure to heavy metal toxins.

Heavy Metals: Lead

  • Found in paints, motor vehicle exhaust aerosolizes lead, batteries, vinyl, stained glass, bullets, and many imported products
  • Common source of lead poisoning is from old homes with lead water pipes
  • Found in calcium supplements made from bone meal and oyster shells and cigarette smoke
  • Lead is stored in our bones and teeth and has a half-life for elimination of 13 years
  • Has been linked to learning and reading disabilities, reduced memory, irritability, attention deficit disorder, hyperactivity, anemia, kidney damage, social and behavioral issues

Arsenic

  • Found in our food, water, soil, and air
  • It is the by-product of the smelting process for metal ores such as copper, lead, gold, zinc, cobalt, and nickel
  • The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry estimates the average American's dietary intake of arsenic is between 11-14 micrograms per day - this is from meat, fish, and poultry
  • Grapes and tobacco are frequently sprayed with arsenic-containing pesticides which also exposes humans via tobacco products and wine
  • Arsenic accumulates in the hair, nails, skin, bone, GI tract, and thyroid gland
  • Arsenic has also been found in our drinking water at high rates. These levels of chronic exposure resulted in increased risk of cancer.
  • The acceptable standard was lowered from 50 ppb to 01 ppb by the World Health Organization, but has yet to be implemented across the US

Mercury

  • Mercury ranks highly among the most poisonous threats to animal life
  • It is found in our air, food, and water
  • Annual worldwide emissions of mercury are estimated to be around 2,200 metric tons
  • Mercury in the form of thimerosal has been used as a preservative in vaccinations for decades
  • Mercury is particularly toxic to the nervous system, especially the developing brain
  • Link between Alzheimer's disease and mercury exposure
We paint a dark picture, but now that you are aware of the sources of toxicity, here are steps you can take to lessen your exposure.

What You Can Do

  1. Choose chemical-free cleansers such as dōTERRA® cleaning products, dish soap, laundry detergent, etc.
  2. Live fragrance-free
  3. Purchase organic foods and ingredients (download our Easy Swap Food Guide)
  4. Thoroughly wash all purchased produce
  5. Drink natural spring water
  6. Take a daily binder supplement such as BiotToxin Binder from CellCore or Bind from Systemic Formulas
  7. Get your levels checked - find the trigger and source of inflammation 
  8. Learn more about how we treat chronic disease
  9. learn more about essential oils
  10. Download our FREE Healthy Habits booklet
If you are experiencing symptoms of inflammation or would like to know more about your personal exposure to toxins, call us to schedule a total toxin test to check for levels of toxin poisoning. We'll give you the resources and care you need. 
Contact Us
Source: Hypothyroidism Type 2, Dr. Mark Starr

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Savage, MN 55378

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